Cheryl Treadway, a Florida woman, found an ingenious way to seek help while being held hostage. Using the Pizza Hut app, she placed an order for a small pepperoni pizza—with an urgent message asking for help.

Her captor, Ethan Nickerson, held Treadway and her children at knifepoint, but when the local Pizza Hut staff saw the distress message, they quickly called the police. Officers arrived at her home, rescued her and her children, and arrested Nickerson.

This story highlights the importance of recognizing subtle cries for help. Domestic violence affects millions, and escaping an abusive relationship is never easy. Organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline provide resources and safety planning tools for those in dangerous situations.

Treadway’s case is a reminder that paying attention—whether as a bystander, emergency responder, or even a pizza shop worker—can save lives.